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	Letter by the Vestry about Removal of the Rev. Samuel C. Pascoe The Times-Union [Florida] February 27, 2007 http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/022707/met_letter.shtml The text of a letter the vestry of Grace Church (Anglican) wrote to parishioners about the removal of their priest, the Rev. Samuel C. Pascoe. Tuesday, February 20, 2007 Dear Grace Church Family, There are few challenges in ministry as difficult as being called upon to give painful and sad news. Such is our responsibility today as we inform you that the Rev'd Dr. Samuel C. Pascoe has engaged in an inappropriate relationship with an adult female parishioner. As a result, the Rt. Rev. Thomas Johnston, Bishop in the Anglican Mission in the Americas (AMiAs), has changed Sam's clerical status within the Anglican Mission to "inactive," revoked his license to function as a priest, and removed him as senior pastor of Grace Church (Anglican). Bishop Johnston, acting in his position as our spiritual authority, has followed Anglican Mission policy for such pastoral situations, and the vestry of Grace Church fully supports his decisions. We believe these actions are consistent with a Scriptural and pastoral model for faithful, responsible ministry and accountability within the church. Certainly, we as a parish family face a difficult challenge in the days ahead. We will grieve together, but we will heal as we stand on Christ's unwavering promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us. This is the Lord's church, and we are confident that He will continue to guide us by His grace as we passionately proclaim the Good News of God in Christ. As your vestry, we are committed more than ever to fulfilling the Great Commandments and Great Commission as we seek to lead this church with faith and a strong sense of purpose into the future God has in store for us. We are also mindful that we have much to look forward to as we begin building our new church home over the next few months. The vestry is focusing on developing next steps, and we will update you regularly on our progress. In the interim, we will be responsible for providing leadership, the Rev'd David Freels will direct worship, and Sally Finn will oversee all Administrative functions as we continue to move forward in mission and ministry to our community. We encourage you to join us in praying for our congregation. Sincerely, The Vestry Grace Church (Anglican)
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